Pea soup, a classic comfort food, is elevated to new heights with this slow cooker recipe. Forget tedious stovetop stirring; this method delivers a luxuriously creamy, flavorful soup with minimal effort. Perfect for a chilly evening or a hearty lunch, this recipe is adaptable to your taste and pantry staples. Let's dive into the deliciousness!
What Makes This Slow Cooker Pea Soup Recipe Special?
This recipe isn't just another pea soup; it's designed for maximum flavor and ease. The slow cooker gently extracts the sweetness from the peas, creating a naturally creamy texture without the need for heavy cream or excessive blending. The addition of aromatic vegetables and flavorful herbs adds depth and complexity, making this a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound dried split peas, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup ham or bacon, diced (for a savory twist)
- Optional: Fresh parsley, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
-
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. (If using ham or bacon, add it to the skillet during this step and cook until browned).
-
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed vegetables (and any cooked ham/bacon) to your slow cooker. Add the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
-
Slow Cook to Perfection: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened.
-
Blend (Optional): For a creamier soup, carefully transfer about half of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the slow cooker and stir to combine. (Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker).
-
Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use frozen peas instead of dried split peas?
Yes, you can! If using frozen peas, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking time on low, or the last 15 minutes on high. You'll likely need to adjust the amount of broth to achieve your desired consistency. Start with less broth and add more if needed.
How can I make this soup thicker?
If your soup is too thin after cooking, you can simmer it uncovered for another 30 minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) before serving.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What kind of bread pairs well with pea soup?
A crusty bread, like a sourdough or a baguette, is a perfect accompaniment to this soup. The texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup, and it's perfect for sopping up any remaining deliciousness.
What are some variations I can try?
Get creative! Add other vegetables like potatoes, leeks, or spinach. Experiment with different herbs and spices. A splash of lemon juice or a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream can add a nice tangy touch.
This slow cooker pea soup recipe is a versatile and delicious way to enjoy this classic comfort food. With minimal effort, you can create a hearty and flavorful soup that the whole family will love. Enjoy!
